Have your say on plans to axe lollipop men and women in Derbyshire

Talks on controversial plans to remove lollipop men and women from almost 40 sites across the county have begun.
Have your say at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/schoolcrossingsHave your say at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/schoolcrossings
Have your say at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/schoolcrossings

Cash-strapped Derbyshire County Council is proposing to remove the familiar sight at 35 locations where there are traffic lights or zebra crossings.

The lunctime service at seven sites is also under threat and any locations which become vacant as a result of staff leaving will not be provided with another crossing patrol.

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Nineteen sites which are currently vacant would not be replaced.

Residents are being urged to have their say on the proposals in a 12-week online consultation at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/schoolcrossings by April 21.

The council needs to save £157million by 2018 because of Government austerity.

Councillor Anne Western, leader of the council, said: “We need to reduce our budget by £45 million in 2015/16 and unfortunately that will mean some services will have to change, reduce or stop altogether.

“We don’t want to cut services – but we’ve got no choice.

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“The county council plays such a vital role in people’s everyday lives and we’re doing all we can to make ends meet,” she added.

The council has found funding which means it will be able to keep lollipop men and women at 93 locations.

Cllr Dean Collins, cabinet member for highways, transport and infrastructure, said: “Last year we faced the prospect of losing all the school crossing patrol service unless alternative funding could be found.

“We’ve managed to find the money to keep most of the service, but want to find out what residents think our proposals.I’d urge everyone to take part in the consultation and have their say.

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“It’s easy to take part – just go online and fill out the survey.”

• Campaigning Chesterfield mum Lisa Pritchard is to hold a public meeting on the controversial plans. The meeting will take place at St Barnabas Community Centre, in Pilsley Road, Danesmoor, at 7.30pm on Tuesday, February 10. Call Lisa on 07805084376 or email [email protected] to confirm your attendance.